Pam Cox
Nominated for: 30 Over 30 Award
Title: Executive Director EHS worldwide
Company: Verizon
Years in Profession: 30
Nominator: Barbara Roche, EHS Project Manager, Verizon, EHS team member with Pam.
Tell us why this person deserves recognition for making a difference in the practice of EHS & Sustainability management. (500 words max.)*
Pam is committed to protecting the environment and the safety and health of its employees, customers, and communities. Her commitment goes beyond compliance. She supports Verizon’s overarching sustainability mission and is committed to economic, environmental, and social responsibilities. She led the EHS team to dual certification for ISO 14001 (environmental) and 45001 (safety). She championed our Lifesaving Principles, Verizon’s COVID response, and Supplier Safety Management. She lives our values every day and works hard to ensure our culture is one of transparency and continual improvement.
Describe a situation or initiative where the nominee was directly responsible for a significant achievement and/or advancement in the practice of EHS & Sustainability management. Include metrics and KPIs if available. (500 words max.)*
In the 5-years that she has led the worldwide EHS team, Pam has worked to make a difference in culture and communications. We have open conversations about risks, hazards, and effective controls. She helped everyone to take responsibility for their safety and the safety of others and brought in stop work authority through something we call "see something, say something." She also championed changing the "Seven Deadly Sins," a very negative and punitive concept, to "Lifesaving Principles," where we care about employees' well-being. Verizon's motor vehicle incident rate has gone from 3.6 to 2.27. TRIR 1.28 to 1.1, Loss work day rate dropped 25%. Our EMR went from 0.98 to 0.66.
In your opinion, what are the predominant skills and attributes that directly contribute to the nominee’s effectiveness and success? (500 words max.)*
She follows through on her commitments. She works hard to get EHS a seat at every table (when she encounters difficulties, she brings her own folding chair). Seriously, some team members joke she has a magic wand. She has earned the respect of business leaders. She seeks feedback often and from all levels. She challenges all of her extended team to take on one problem and try to make an impact. She cares about each of us and always strives for continual improvement. She communicates openly and listens to the field to understand the risks, and gets feedback before implementing a solution.
Share the ways this nominee has positively influenced you, both personally and professionally. You may also include reflections and quotes from others including executives, direct reports, colleagues, suppliers, and clients. (500 words max.)*
"Thank you for continuing to earn our seat at the table. I have heard no less than 3 senior leaders during kickoffs (Craig, Kevin, Sam) who have reinforced that Safety is most important. In the earlier years, we would share safety was missing during kickoff meetings. I know 2023 will be challenging and not having rose-colored glasses, although fully committed to bringing home every employee every night," Alan Teaford, Safety Manager (Jan 2023)
"It was great to see you at the kickoff. I really appreciate you for agreeing to present and be a part of our success this year and beyond. I appreciate you and your team." Yoli Stancil, SVP Operations (Mar 2023)
"Thanks for all you do for our team." David Leland, Environmental Specialist
"It's a great feeling to work for someone that is so approachable." Joe Dolphy, Safety
Provide one or more examples of nominee’s commitment to environmental stewardship within their organization and/or the community. (500 words max.)*
Pam led the EHS team to achieve ISO 14001 certification. Annually we complete a risk assessment to evaluate what environmental aspects impact both the EHS team and Verizon and what opportunities are associated with them.
She supports leaders in efforts to achieve net zero carbon emissions in our operations, invest in renewable energy, and improve the energy efficiency of our networks and facilities.
She implemented a process to screen vendors before beginning an engagement to ensure that they share our commitment to protecting the environment.
She and her team use data to try and predict and prevent spills. She goes beyond compliance and screens waste facilities before use to ensure they meet high standards to protect the environment.